This offseason, one of the more controversial moves the Detroit Lions made was cutting veteran defensive end Za’Darius Smith and failing to re-sign him despite reported mutual interest. It turns out the Lions may have made the right move. On Monday, Smith announced his retirement via his Instagram after playing five games with the Philadelphia Eagles this season.

“I knew this day would come — but now that it’s here, I’m feeling so many emotions I never expected,” Smith captioned the post. He later added, “And to the fans — the biggest thank you of all. To every fan from each organization I represented: thank you, thank you, thank you for everything! From wearing my jerseys, collecting my cards, sending letters, sharing your opinions (good and tough ones alike), and most importantly — show

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